ESI Introduces High-Capacitance MLCC Tester

Portland, OR - Electro Scientific Industries, Inc. recently introduced the Model 3550 high-capacitance multi-layer ceramic capacitor (MLCC) tester. The tool is designed to address the needs of the high capacitance segment of the MLCC industry by enabling higher yields, improved time to market and lower cost of ownership. Volume shipments of the Model 3550 are expected to begin during the first quarter of ESI's fiscal year 2008.

"MLCC manufacturers continue to experience increasing pressure to realize greater profits in a shorter amount of time. Our customers are looking to us to provide them with a superior value solution that performs with unparalleled precision and productivity. The introduction of the Model 3550 will address these challenges by offering enhanced capability and extremely low cost of ownership, while further reinforcing ESI's position as the leader in the MLCC industry," noted Vernon Cooke, ESI passive components product marketing manager.

The Model 3550 performs electrical testing of high-capacitance MLCCs, used in applications of computers, flat panel displays, automotive, and video games. The tool's exceptionally high speed reduces total operating costs through reliable and repeatable sorting. By employing ESI's patented rotary technology, multiple tests are simultaneously performed on chips as small as .016 inches by .008 inches (0402 metric). The Model 3550 can test and sort up to 540,000 MLCC chips per hour, a level of output that is about three to four times greater than typical high capacitance MLCC testers, including ESI's.

SOURCE: ESI, Inc.